Evaluating the Pre-BCS Era for the Top College Football Team

Before the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) era, which began in 1998, there was no centralized system to determine the top college football team. Instead, a series of unwritten rules and methods were used to decide which team would be crowned champions. This article delves into the various selection methods and provides an analysis of the top team before the BCS era.

The Evolution of Selection Methods

The process of selecting the champion in college football before the BCS era was far from uniform. Various selection methods were used, including major polls, coaches' polls, and even fan-based selections. The most recognized of these methods were the AP Poll and the USA Today Coaches Poll, which typically coincided in their selections. However, these methods did not always align, leading to some controversy and uncertainty.

Major polls like the AP Poll and the USA Today Coaches Poll were often considered the most respected and influential sources for determining the top teams. These polls were based on the current performance of teams, with each voter assigning points to the top teams. The teams with the highest total points generally gained the most recognition as potential champions. Fans and media also had a significant impact, contributing to the overall perception of which teams were the best.

Other selection methods included conference championship games, which were used by many conferences to decide their champion before extending the title to the national level. These metrics, combined with individual team performance, provided a more comprehensive view of each team's capabilities.

The Role of Independent Selections

While the major polls and conference championship games were the primary methods, there was also a significant role played by independent experts and organizations. These selections were not as publicized, but they often informed the major polls and added an additional layer of scrutiny to the selection process. For example, the Associated Press (AP) and the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) would consult with various experts and scouts to get a more nuanced understanding of each team's strengths and weaknesses.

These independent selections were crucial in providing a more balanced and objective view of the top teams. They often highlighted unexpected teams or provided a different perspective on the ones deemed the strongest by the major polls. This helped in ensuring that no top team was unfairly overlooked, even if they did not secure the top spot in the major polls.

The Controversies and Challenges

No system is perfect, and the pre-BCS era was riddled with controversies and challenges. One of the most significant issues was the lack of a clear protocol for how the various methods would be combined and weighted. This often led to debates and disagreements, especially when major polls differed in their rankings. For example, in seasons leading up to the BCS, there were instances where the AP and USA Today Coaches Polls did not match, leading to confusion and criticism of the selection process.

Additionally, teams that were considered fringe or marginal candidates often received more attention and scrutiny. This sometimes led to a situation where teams that were closer to the top but not quite at the pinnacle of the rankings could still secure a notable place in the discussion, causing some dissatisfaction among fans and coaches.

The System's Efficacy and Fairness

In spite of these challenges, the pre-BCS system did work relatively well. The various methods and independent selections created a robust and multifaceted approach to determining the top team. This involved performance in regular-season games, conference championships, and individual team performance, ensuring that multiple factors were considered.

There was little controversy surrounding the title game, with most teams that reached the final games being strong contenders, barring a few fringe cases. These fringe cases often involved teams that were not as consistently strong or had a more questionable record, leading to debates but not outright controversies. The system created a level of logistical coherence that many fans and teams appreciated.

Conclusion

The pre-BCS era for college football champion selection was complex, relying on a combination of major polls, conference championships, and independent selections. While not perfect, this system often worked effectively and created a balanced view of the top teams. The transition to the BCS and then the CFP (College Football Playoff) has its own set of challenges, but it inherited some lessons from this era that were beneficial in creating a more comprehensive and objective selection process.

Future discussions about college football championships should take into account the merits and drawbacks of the pre-BCS era. Understanding these dynamics can help in refining current systems to ensure fairness and transparency in determining college football champions.